Essential Packing Tips & Insider Travel Hacks for Your Dream European Adventure of a Lifetime

Planning your first Eurotrip? Returning for another adventure through the “Old World?” Whether you're a budget explorer, a culture enthusiast, or a tourist eager to soak in all the sights, packing smart and knowing a few travel hacks can make your adventure smoother and more enjoyable. 

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Since you’ll likely be walking a lot more during your trip, it’s important your bag doesn’t weigh you down unnecessarily. Additionally, you’ll want to leave extra space so you can bring home souvenirs and gifts from your travels. 

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First, let’s dive into the Eurotrip essentials packing list.

Packing Tips

Saving space in your bag will save you time and headaches when it comes to traveling through Europe. Below are tried and tested packing tips for your European adventure. 

1. Versatile Clothing

Pack clothing that can be easily mixed and matched for different looks. Think neutral colors and versatile pieces like jeans, basic tees, and jackets that can dress up or down.

2. Roll, Don't Fold

Rolling clothes instead of folding them saves space and minimizes wrinkles. This method is a game-changer for fitting more into your luggage without the bulk.

3. Shoes - Less is More

Limit yourself to a maximum of three pairs of shoes. Include a comfortable pair for walking (you’ll end up doing more walking than you think!), a casual pair, and maybe something dressier if you plan on dining out or attending events. If your trip plans include hiking, you may want to consider wearing your hiking shoes while you fly, to save on space and weight. 

4. Quality Luggage

Invest in a quality, lightweight travel backpack or suitcase with secure locks. Your luggage will be your best friend on this trip, so make sure it’s sturdy and reliable. And, make sure you don’t pack too much! Your bag will feel extremely heavy after long walks from the train station or through winding alleyways to get to your accommodations. 

5. Universal Power Adapter

Europe's electrical outlets vary, so bring a universal power adapter to keep your devices charged. This is a must-have for any international traveler!

6. Portable Charger

Days of exploring can be long, and you don't want your phone dying halfway through. Pack a portable charger to ensure your devices stay powered. And don’t forget a charging cable! 

7. Essential Documents

Don’t forget your passport, travel insurance, and any necessary visas. Keep these documents in a safe, accessible place at all times. Never leave your passport in your luggage or room, not even in the safe. Also, make sure to bring along photocopies of your passport, in case it gets stolen or lost. This will expedite the replacement process. 

8. First-Aid Kit

Include a small first-aid kit with items like pain relievers, band-aids, and any personal medications. Better to have it and not need it than the other way around!

9. Reusable Water Bottle

Staying hydrated is crucial, and a reusable water bottle helps reduce single-use plastic waste. Many European cities have public fountains where you can refill your bottle. This can also be helpful when visiting theme parks, allowing you to save money and stay hydrated. Just make sure its empty before going through security at airports! 

10. Weather-Appropriate Outfits

Plan your outfits based on the weather forecast for each destination. Layers are your best friend, as European weather can be quite unpredictable. Bring along a packable umbrella or a rain jacket to help you stay dry. 

11. A Travel eSIM

One thing you can pack that takes up no room at all is a virtual SIM card! It’s downloadable and takes only minutes to set up on your compatible device. If you buy a Europe eSIM unlimited data plan, for example, you’ll have seamless Internet connectivity across the continent!    

12. Leave Some Space

Though you’ll want to prioritize packing everything you need, it’s important to leave some space in your luggage. This will allow you to pick up souvenirs along the way. That could be items like a cookbook from a local bookstore, featuring top dishes from the country. It could be sweet treats or savory snacks that you bring home to share with loved ones. It could be a piece of original art you plan to hang in your home, reminding you of your travels. 

Travel Hacks

Once you’ve packed well, now it’s time to explore! Before you hit the streets, check out these the top travel tips to ensure you have a smooth and hassle-free travel experience. 

1. Coin Purse

Bring a coin purse since many countries across Europe use coins for smaller denominations. They add up quickly and many places still prefer cash for small transactions.

2. International Driver's License

If you plan on driving, get an international driver's license well in advance. It's accepted in many countries and can make traveling between several countries easier. This is also when eSIM cards come in handy – as you’ll want a reliable navigation app helping you reach your destination. 

3. Tipping Etiquette

Look up the tipping etiquette for the countries you plan to visit. It varies across Europe and knowing the local customs can save you from awkward situations. (This is also where your coin purse will come in handy!)

4. Keep Your Passport Handy

Always keep your passport on you. Though your accommodations may offer a safe, the best guarantee for keeping your passport out of the hands of others is by keeping it on your person. Store it in front pocket of your pants or an inside, zippered pocket of your bag. 

5. Book Train Trips in Advance

For longer train journeys, book in advance to guarantee a seat and potentially snag cheaper fares. This is especially important during busy travel seasons like summer and the holidays. Having a virtual SIM card makes it easier to keep track of the trains – allowing you to track their status and rebook in the case of a cancellation. 

6. Use TripIt

Utilize the TripIt app to help build and store your itinerary. It keeps all your travel plans in one place and is accessible offline. Add flight itineraries and reservations to your trip by forwarding your emails to TripIt. 

7. Free Walking Tours

Apps like GuruWalk offer free walking tours of popular destinations. It’s a fantastic way to explore a city and learn from locals without breaking the bank.

8. eSIM for Data Connection

Purchase a travel eSIM right before you go so you have a data connection as soon as you land. It’s more convenient than hunting for a local SIM card and far cheaper than utilizing your home carrier. You’ll be able to use your eSIM app to manage your plan so you always have access to maps, online reviews and messaging services to stay connected with loved ones back home. 

9. Look for Alternative Ways to See the Destination

Though walking around or taking tours are a great way to explore a location, there are alternative ways to see a city that can offer you unforgettable memories. If you find yourself in a city with a river running through it, consider taking a riverboat tour. If you like being above the clouds and seeing all of the sites from one view point, then finding the tallest building open to visitors is a great activity. But, if you prefer to stay closer to the ground, consider looking for local bike rentals as a fun way to cover more ground. 

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Looking for even more travel hacks? We’ve curated another list that can be helpful, whether you travel to Europe or not. 

Conclusion

With these packing tips and travel hacks, you're well-equipped to make the most of your Eurotrip. Remember, the key to a successful trip is preparation. Make sure that your bag is organized and thoughtfully filled with what you’ll need. Once at your destination, don’t forget to implement the above travel hacks to ensure you have a fun and memorable experience.  

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Bon voyage! 🌍✈️

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